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Warrior Hearts Academy #3
Phoenix Rise
My past has been lost to me—until now...
And the three men I love teeter on the edge of an abyss...
The only way through is to call upon the beast inside me—and let it loose...
PHOENIX RISE completes the Warrior Hearts Academy Phoenix trilogy—a dark, slow-burn, paranormal/fantasy romance where the strong female main character has many love interests that she doesn’t have to choose between. A Happily Ever After is guaranteed. The subject matter within is best suited for mature readers. If you have specific triggers, please contact the author to discuss whether this trilogy is right for you.
And the three men I love teeter on the edge of an abyss...
The only way through is to call upon the beast inside me—and let it loose...
PHOENIX RISE completes the Warrior Hearts Academy Phoenix trilogy—a dark, slow-burn, paranormal/fantasy romance where the strong female main character has many love interests that she doesn’t have to choose between. A Happily Ever After is guaranteed. The subject matter within is best suited for mature readers. If you have specific triggers, please contact the author to discuss whether this trilogy is right for you.
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First published February 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 22, 2023
Not surprisingly, I read this in almost one sitting, staying up until 3 am to finish it. I love these books and I can't get enough of this universe. The writing duo that makes up Ellie Horn never fails to draw me into their book and want to read straight through until I find out what happens. Even more so when it's the last book of the trilogy/series. No, this series is not complete because the villains are out there, but the love story that makes up the quad in this trilogy is satisfyingly complete and I know I'll see more of them in future series with other soulmate groups. Unlike some of the previous series set in this universe, you do need to read these in order because each one leaves you on a cliffhanger that leads directly into the next book. But honestly, I would recommend starting with the original 5-book series Warrior Hearts and read them in order so you can see how the villains have developed from the start. If you want more of their writing, I would recommend the Nightshifter series written under L. E. Horn, which seems to be in the same universe (maybe?) but is not at all connected to this one. The Darkon series also involves shapeshifters but is more sci-fi as it takes place on other planets and involves alien species.
I finished this book and am already waiting anxiously for the next trilogy, but thankfully, Ellie Horn doesn't let the grass grow before putting out more books! All I can say is that I will read anything they put out!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I finished this book and am already waiting anxiously for the next trilogy, but thankfully, Ellie Horn doesn't let the grass grow before putting out more books! All I can say is that I will read anything they put out!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 6, 2024
My biggest issue with this series is the serious over-exaggeration of the Australian accent/mannerisms. It’s so far past the way Australians speak that it’s cringy as hell.
October 29, 2023
RH MMM/Shifter/Enemies to Lovers-Fated Mates
SYNOPSIS (of Phoenix Trilogy): The FC (Anna) is a Unicorn/Satyr hybrid raised as a human who finds out she is actually a supernatural and that there are multiple Realms other than just the human realm. The MCs are a Dragon, a Wolf and a Unicorn although this series uses different terms. When she discovers she is not human she agrees to attend the Warrior Academy to learn about her abilities and to help the Council police the realms. The trilogy arcs over the FC finding out who and what she is, the development of her relationships with her mates and the trials that they face as well as fighting against a great evil trying to destroy the realms. Whilst the trilogy ends with everyone coming together there are open questions that I assume are dealt with in the next trilogy of the series which relates to a different set of main characters.
I thought I had found another great author to add to my (albeit short) list of go to reads (the top of which is J Bree and Dark Legacy by Jasmin Eve). Whilst I will give the next trilogy (Centaurs) a go I am not convinced that will be the case. Why you ask? I will start by saying the story is well written and edited, the FC is strong and kick ass but not irritating and the MCs are each distinct and alpha. Whilst not particularly unique, the story is strong with plenty of angst and drama to pull you along and a lot happening. There’s also a decent amount of world building and character development which gives a good basis to the story and adds depth.
The issue I had was with the climax. The story has a major story arc an element of which carries over into the next trilogy and a minor one. These affect the MCs and are drawn out as well as involving the single theme of men being put in positions where they are taken advantage of sexually by women, denigrated and made to feel powerless. As a personal comment I felt the author dragged these story lines out a bit too long and they are definitely uncomfortable. Readers should also note that they are quite graphic. The drawing out of tension and drama would not have been such an issue for me if the climax of each story line had matched the lead up. Unfortunately despite the heinous acts undertaken by the villains they seemed to meet quick and relatively painless endings which did not really do it for me in terms of what they should have suffered. If an author is going to create such truly evil villains and then have them inflict such horror on the MCs then they really need to give the readers the satisfaction of a fitting and just comeuppance (IMO).
The other problem I felt was that as a result of the two main story lines being drawn out whilst the FC spent alot of time over all 3 Books with the Wolf MC and their relationship development she spent very little time with either of the other two MCs. As a result there was minimal relationship development and their ultimate coming together and mating was rushed, especially the one in Book 3 and lacked any real depth. I was also left unclear as to when and how the FC actually mated with the Dragon or the Unicorn as there was no biting or mark.
Finally, the author does not tie everything up. Not all the villains are dealt with in this trilogy which really left me feeling dissatisfied. Even if they are all dealt with by the end of the next trilogy I feel that after everything this set of characters went through they should have had their own full justice, especially Sebastien. Equally, I did not feel that the FC and MCs were all “happily ever after”. The author did not really leave me with a feeling that this quad were completely together and committed. Whilst the dragon and wolf seemed to be accepting of the RH the Unicorn wasn’t and the author never closed that element out. Again, it left me feeling dissatisfied and that there wasn’t really a HEA for this group. Open questions were left around, for example, Brock (Xumi’s son) - was there no revenge - and the apparent offspring resulting from the Tantril scene (yuk by the way).
Why do author’s spend time and effort building up and dragging stories out if they aren’t going to spend an equal amount of effort closing the story out in a satisfactory way?
I’m going to try the next trilogy in the series to see if I get any closure or whether this is just the way this author writes. However, if this is another series where the men get sexually abused by women and humiliated then I will have to draw a line! That’s not really a story line that I can buy into again.
SYNOPSIS (of Phoenix Trilogy): The FC (Anna) is a Unicorn/Satyr hybrid raised as a human who finds out she is actually a supernatural and that there are multiple Realms other than just the human realm. The MCs are a Dragon, a Wolf and a Unicorn although this series uses different terms. When she discovers she is not human she agrees to attend the Warrior Academy to learn about her abilities and to help the Council police the realms. The trilogy arcs over the FC finding out who and what she is, the development of her relationships with her mates and the trials that they face as well as fighting against a great evil trying to destroy the realms. Whilst the trilogy ends with everyone coming together there are open questions that I assume are dealt with in the next trilogy of the series which relates to a different set of main characters.
I thought I had found another great author to add to my (albeit short) list of go to reads (the top of which is J Bree and Dark Legacy by Jasmin Eve). Whilst I will give the next trilogy (Centaurs) a go I am not convinced that will be the case. Why you ask? I will start by saying the story is well written and edited, the FC is strong and kick ass but not irritating and the MCs are each distinct and alpha. Whilst not particularly unique, the story is strong with plenty of angst and drama to pull you along and a lot happening. There’s also a decent amount of world building and character development which gives a good basis to the story and adds depth.
The issue I had was with the climax. The story has a major story arc an element of which carries over into the next trilogy and a minor one. These affect the MCs and are drawn out as well as involving the single theme of men being put in positions where they are taken advantage of sexually by women, denigrated and made to feel powerless. As a personal comment I felt the author dragged these story lines out a bit too long and they are definitely uncomfortable. Readers should also note that they are quite graphic. The drawing out of tension and drama would not have been such an issue for me if the climax of each story line had matched the lead up. Unfortunately despite the heinous acts undertaken by the villains they seemed to meet quick and relatively painless endings which did not really do it for me in terms of what they should have suffered. If an author is going to create such truly evil villains and then have them inflict such horror on the MCs then they really need to give the readers the satisfaction of a fitting and just comeuppance (IMO).
The other problem I felt was that as a result of the two main story lines being drawn out whilst the FC spent alot of time over all 3 Books with the Wolf MC and their relationship development she spent very little time with either of the other two MCs. As a result there was minimal relationship development and their ultimate coming together and mating was rushed, especially the one in Book 3 and lacked any real depth. I was also left unclear as to when and how the FC actually mated with the Dragon or the Unicorn as there was no biting or mark.
Finally, the author does not tie everything up. Not all the villains are dealt with in this trilogy which really left me feeling dissatisfied. Even if they are all dealt with by the end of the next trilogy I feel that after everything this set of characters went through they should have had their own full justice, especially Sebastien. Equally, I did not feel that the FC and MCs were all “happily ever after”. The author did not really leave me with a feeling that this quad were completely together and committed. Whilst the dragon and wolf seemed to be accepting of the RH the Unicorn wasn’t and the author never closed that element out. Again, it left me feeling dissatisfied and that there wasn’t really a HEA for this group. Open questions were left around, for example, Brock (Xumi’s son) - was there no revenge - and the apparent offspring resulting from the Tantril scene (yuk by the way).
Why do author’s spend time and effort building up and dragging stories out if they aren’t going to spend an equal amount of effort closing the story out in a satisfactory way?
I’m going to try the next trilogy in the series to see if I get any closure or whether this is just the way this author writes. However, if this is another series where the men get sexually abused by women and humiliated then I will have to draw a line! That’s not really a story line that I can buy into again.
February 2, 2023
Potential triggers: torture, sexual abuse, explicit scenes
Whenever I see a new Ellie Horn book I start salivating! I get so excited to immerse myself into the worlds she creates, yes, not one world, she opens up so many wonderful realms, with so many wonderful inhabitants! Of course, my favourite inhabitants are always the current ones I'm reading about, with all the rest from previous books firmly lodged in my heart. This is a dark and dangerous world, ruled by certain individuals who have not an iota of compassion or sympathy. Rather they revel in inflicting pain and fear, ok, not ALL of them, some are desperately trying to stop these atrocities, to stop those responsible but the baddies keep eluding justice.
I simply adore all the different "people", Shifters of all kinds, Dragons, Unicorns, Witches, the whole bang shoot without ever being overwhelmed. They all fit into the storyline, as the author layers brick by brick to build up a magnificent series of books! All the characters have issues to resolve, some so appalling it rattles the brain. Matt, Talakai, and Sebastian are beautifully flawed, not daring to grasp that which they feel is their fate. So many heart breaking moments! But Anna is the glue who holds them all together, although she really had her work cut out for her! She's..... different... not a shifter, not a witch, she's more! What a delight finding out what "more" was. So much intrigue and soul searching in this riveting series!
My favourite flamboyant Satyr Jacques is instrumental yet again in collecting those bricks the author lays out and manipulating them with such excellence. That he's a hoot is an added bonus!
I love these unique characters, Mari, an Ogre is a pacifist, all her species are, who will even resort to violence, an act completely abhorrent to her in her need to aid Anna and her friends. Such deduction and fierce loyalty is a rare commodity. Matt and his Australianisms are so funny at times but that's just his facade, his hurt is buried deep within him. He's so compationate and the greatest friend one could wish for. What he and Talakai endured at the hands of Isabel would have driven anyone insane, my word are the vile creatures in this series vile! As for Galeran, now he's something else! His very misguided conviction of cleansing the realms and the means he uses to accomplish this pipedream is horrendous. He has an awful flair for administrating pain and torture but he has sunk to a level that's beyond heinous, my word did my mouth drop open when I read what he'd done!
But character building is what Ms Horn excels in, it's so easy to sympathise with these remarkable characters, to feel them, understand them and be carried away with them and the story. It's a complex network that is designed in such a way that has elements of everything, love, fear, action, self worth, anger, tears, from both characters and myself, and a dose of humour, that makes these books so very much a treasure and delight to read. One can't be sure which way the plot will veer but one can be sure of a few hours of zoning out, of needing to turn the pages without stop.
Whenever I see a new Ellie Horn book I start salivating! I get so excited to immerse myself into the worlds she creates, yes, not one world, she opens up so many wonderful realms, with so many wonderful inhabitants! Of course, my favourite inhabitants are always the current ones I'm reading about, with all the rest from previous books firmly lodged in my heart. This is a dark and dangerous world, ruled by certain individuals who have not an iota of compassion or sympathy. Rather they revel in inflicting pain and fear, ok, not ALL of them, some are desperately trying to stop these atrocities, to stop those responsible but the baddies keep eluding justice.
I simply adore all the different "people", Shifters of all kinds, Dragons, Unicorns, Witches, the whole bang shoot without ever being overwhelmed. They all fit into the storyline, as the author layers brick by brick to build up a magnificent series of books! All the characters have issues to resolve, some so appalling it rattles the brain. Matt, Talakai, and Sebastian are beautifully flawed, not daring to grasp that which they feel is their fate. So many heart breaking moments! But Anna is the glue who holds them all together, although she really had her work cut out for her! She's..... different... not a shifter, not a witch, she's more! What a delight finding out what "more" was. So much intrigue and soul searching in this riveting series!
My favourite flamboyant Satyr Jacques is instrumental yet again in collecting those bricks the author lays out and manipulating them with such excellence. That he's a hoot is an added bonus!
I love these unique characters, Mari, an Ogre is a pacifist, all her species are, who will even resort to violence, an act completely abhorrent to her in her need to aid Anna and her friends. Such deduction and fierce loyalty is a rare commodity. Matt and his Australianisms are so funny at times but that's just his facade, his hurt is buried deep within him. He's so compationate and the greatest friend one could wish for. What he and Talakai endured at the hands of Isabel would have driven anyone insane, my word are the vile creatures in this series vile! As for Galeran, now he's something else! His very misguided conviction of cleansing the realms and the means he uses to accomplish this pipedream is horrendous. He has an awful flair for administrating pain and torture but he has sunk to a level that's beyond heinous, my word did my mouth drop open when I read what he'd done!
But character building is what Ms Horn excels in, it's so easy to sympathise with these remarkable characters, to feel them, understand them and be carried away with them and the story. It's a complex network that is designed in such a way that has elements of everything, love, fear, action, self worth, anger, tears, from both characters and myself, and a dose of humour, that makes these books so very much a treasure and delight to read. One can't be sure which way the plot will veer but one can be sure of a few hours of zoning out, of needing to turn the pages without stop.
February 8, 2023
ARC from author - NO spoilers! Bk 3 in the Warrior Heart Academy series
*NOT stand alone please read Phoenix Fall Bk1 & Phoenix Burn Bk2 first to get full impact from Bk3*
Adult read, medium burn/spice, Reverse Harem, dragons, werewolves, shifters, unicorns, World building, magic, Satyrs, fated mates and multi POV.
CW: explicit scenes, sexual abuse but not within Harem, PTSD and mild, in my opinion, scenes of war
Story picks up immediately from Phoenix Burn, Book 2 and the pace does not linger but gathers momentum.
You are ever drawn into each of the main characters spiraling thoughts of hope and despair as they battle for survival against ever decreasing odds.
Old allies show surprising strength and humour in times of need and Anna's heritage becomes apparent giving her more questions than ever before.
Matt, Talaki and Sebastian grow in character, depth and loveability.
Their experiences have been so well written, not over done along with Anna's handling and reactions.
My heart has been broken and put back together so many times reading this, I had to take a breather a few times because I had become so attached to them, I was hurting alongside, so immersive.
Battle scenes superb and easy to visualise, clear hierarchy of villains with subplots unfurling for future works I hope.
Plot driven with so many twists and turns, warm Spice but appropriate to story, humour interspersed to lighten up the darken times and add hope; cleverly done.
The World building continues to be exquisite, friendships flourish and new tantalising characters are introduced; the intricacies know no bounds.
It has been an absolute pleasure reading the ARC's for this Trilogy and not one page disappointed my high expectations.
I expected a Huge conclusion and it exceeded my hopes, Ellie Horn is now one of my Go To Authors.
I will be buying the hard format of this Trilogy for my book shelves as it will be a re-read set for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*NOT stand alone please read Phoenix Fall Bk1 & Phoenix Burn Bk2 first to get full impact from Bk3*
Adult read, medium burn/spice, Reverse Harem, dragons, werewolves, shifters, unicorns, World building, magic, Satyrs, fated mates and multi POV.
CW: explicit scenes, sexual abuse but not within Harem, PTSD and mild, in my opinion, scenes of war
Story picks up immediately from Phoenix Burn, Book 2 and the pace does not linger but gathers momentum.
You are ever drawn into each of the main characters spiraling thoughts of hope and despair as they battle for survival against ever decreasing odds.
Old allies show surprising strength and humour in times of need and Anna's heritage becomes apparent giving her more questions than ever before.
Matt, Talaki and Sebastian grow in character, depth and loveability.
Their experiences have been so well written, not over done along with Anna's handling and reactions.
My heart has been broken and put back together so many times reading this, I had to take a breather a few times because I had become so attached to them, I was hurting alongside, so immersive.
Battle scenes superb and easy to visualise, clear hierarchy of villains with subplots unfurling for future works I hope.
Plot driven with so many twists and turns, warm Spice but appropriate to story, humour interspersed to lighten up the darken times and add hope; cleverly done.
The World building continues to be exquisite, friendships flourish and new tantalising characters are introduced; the intricacies know no bounds.
It has been an absolute pleasure reading the ARC's for this Trilogy and not one page disappointed my high expectations.
I expected a Huge conclusion and it exceeded my hopes, Ellie Horn is now one of my Go To Authors.
I will be buying the hard format of this Trilogy for my book shelves as it will be a re-read set for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2023
Every one of Cara's strides was like a knife in my heart, carrying me farther away from my guys. My future mates. I had no doubts, not anymore. I was fated to belong to all three of them. Or rather, they belonged to me. And no one, not the fucking Dragona underlord, or the crazy Bellati Galeran, was going to take them away from me.
"Phoenix Rise" is the epic ending of the "Warrior Hearts Academy" trilogy. I absolutely loved this series, and the final book was everything I hoped it would be. This book is packed with action and suspense from start to finish, and I had a very hard time putting it down when life and work got in the way of reading.
Even though this is the final book in this series, there were still plenty of surprises along the way. Anna needs all the help she can get to get her mates back from the people who captured them, and I loved to explore the connections between her and those helping her. This series is heavily plot driven and it was amazing to see all the little dots connect within the story, and with previous books that are linked to this trilogy (even though it's not necessary to have read them). Even though this storyline is quite hard at times, and definitely touches some sensitive and dark topics, the author always manages to add a tiny bit of humor at the exact right time.
I seriously highly recommend this trilogy to everyone: it is action packed, plot driven, filled with twists and turns, has some amazing characters and I loved it from start to finish!
"Phoenix Rise" is the epic ending of the "Warrior Hearts Academy" trilogy. I absolutely loved this series, and the final book was everything I hoped it would be. This book is packed with action and suspense from start to finish, and I had a very hard time putting it down when life and work got in the way of reading.
Even though this is the final book in this series, there were still plenty of surprises along the way. Anna needs all the help she can get to get her mates back from the people who captured them, and I loved to explore the connections between her and those helping her. This series is heavily plot driven and it was amazing to see all the little dots connect within the story, and with previous books that are linked to this trilogy (even though it's not necessary to have read them). Even though this storyline is quite hard at times, and definitely touches some sensitive and dark topics, the author always manages to add a tiny bit of humor at the exact right time.
I seriously highly recommend this trilogy to everyone: it is action packed, plot driven, filled with twists and turns, has some amazing characters and I loved it from start to finish!
August 24, 2025
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Spice: 2/5
Genre: Reverse Harem, Paranormal Romance, Academy Romance
Content Warnings: Violence
ARC Source: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
PoV: Multiple: Bree, Tez, Razor. Caliel
Thoughts:
This is a 3 book series, set in the Warrior Hearts Academy world. I started with this series and don’t feel like it’s necessary to read any of the previous books in this series to understand this series. The author does a good job of explaining things for those who haven’t read any of the other books but it seems best to start with the first book series in this world. I plan on going back to read them so I can gain more background on some of the characters in this book and I think it will help make a little more sense of some of the things going on in this series. .
Overall the book was good. However, in the beginning, I find that Bree is quite unlikeable as she chooses to ignore the terrible things going on right in front of her. Eventually she starts to see her reality for what it is and decides she needs to atone for her role in it, which makes her more likeable. It’s a little slow paced but seems like it’s needed in order to set up the next couple of books. It does start to get much more exciting in the last part of the book. It’s definitely a slow burn romance but you get to see how her world collides with some of her possible love interests. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series within The Warrior Hearts Academy world.
Spice: 2/5
Genre: Reverse Harem, Paranormal Romance, Academy Romance
Content Warnings: Violence
ARC Source: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
PoV: Multiple: Bree, Tez, Razor. Caliel
Thoughts:
This is a 3 book series, set in the Warrior Hearts Academy world. I started with this series and don’t feel like it’s necessary to read any of the previous books in this series to understand this series. The author does a good job of explaining things for those who haven’t read any of the other books but it seems best to start with the first book series in this world. I plan on going back to read them so I can gain more background on some of the characters in this book and I think it will help make a little more sense of some of the things going on in this series. .
Overall the book was good. However, in the beginning, I find that Bree is quite unlikeable as she chooses to ignore the terrible things going on right in front of her. Eventually she starts to see her reality for what it is and decides she needs to atone for her role in it, which makes her more likeable. It’s a little slow paced but seems like it’s needed in order to set up the next couple of books. It does start to get much more exciting in the last part of the book. It’s definitely a slow burn romance but you get to see how her world collides with some of her possible love interests. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series within The Warrior Hearts Academy world.
February 15, 2023
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from BookSirens for giving my two cents. Whoa...what a read! We start the book with Matt and Talakai still in the clutches of Xumi. She is a twisted dragoness who loves pain more than anything but when she forces her hand at Matt, Talakai can only obey. Anna feels hopeless but Cara had a plan to get them out. Bring in Haki and Jacques to formulate a plan to get them out and during the heist she learns her power can do more than what she bargained for. On top of that Sébastian is still in the enemy hands and trying to flush them out is proving very difficult. Anna feels him slipping away and in top of that Talakai doesn't want to return to the academy and it's making her heart hurt. Matt doesn't know how to help...he knows he isn't enough to help her. That blasted dragon needs to step up and help. Cara sees more power in Anna and takes her to meet someone...a very special and royal someone who may or may not have answers for them. To top it off, Anna feels a connection to another, not mate but familiar. Next is the impossible task to find Sébastian before it too late. Will Anna have the strength in heart to move forward, will Matt tell her what has transpired and will Talakai man up to his feelings? There's so much happening in this book that you don't want to give away any juicy bits! Great read!
April 16, 2025
Every single one of the men was graped in some way. Why? It wasn’t even in the awful yet overdone plot device usually utilized as women’s backstory, unnecessarily signifying their strength and resilience by surviving the pathetic power grab attempt.
But these men were made to be violently robbed of their bodily autonomy and consent, then rock up to school the next day like it was nothing or encouraged to get over themselves for being rightfully broken up and traumatized.
Hello????
The fmc isn’t even all that torn up about her mates’ various assaults either. She even lives vicariously through one of them while it’s happening to him and then pops into the kitchen for a snack after.
A villain just bounced on your chained up mates unwilling pogo stick, and that’s just another Tuesday for you? It’s honestly revolting to be so blasé about it.
Can you imagine male mates acting the same to their female’s assault? And then be expected to root for those men?
I just don’t understand why 2/3 of her harem was made to be with other people against their will more than they ever were with her. Both sexually and just present in general.
It’s obvious from the first part of this book that the author has great difficulty writing scenes with more than three people, but if she was trying to avoid that eventuality, then don’t write a harem.
But these men were made to be violently robbed of their bodily autonomy and consent, then rock up to school the next day like it was nothing or encouraged to get over themselves for being rightfully broken up and traumatized.
Hello????
The fmc isn’t even all that torn up about her mates’ various assaults either. She even lives vicariously through one of them while it’s happening to him and then pops into the kitchen for a snack after.
A villain just bounced on your chained up mates unwilling pogo stick, and that’s just another Tuesday for you? It’s honestly revolting to be so blasé about it.
Can you imagine male mates acting the same to their female’s assault? And then be expected to root for those men?
I just don’t understand why 2/3 of her harem was made to be with other people against their will more than they ever were with her. Both sexually and just present in general.
It’s obvious from the first part of this book that the author has great difficulty writing scenes with more than three people, but if she was trying to avoid that eventuality, then don’t write a harem.
February 12, 2023
Ellie Horn brought it home with this third book of the Warrior Hearts Academy trilogy. I received an ARC of this book and am grateful for the opportunity to experience the last leg of this journey. I found the array of characters and their ability to navigate relationships and their differences one of the outstanding parts of this adventure. Adversity and team work both have space and necessity in this work. Simple life lessons are taught and learned in big ways with these shifter folks. I found the most interesting thing that happens within this incredible action series is the way intimate relationships are shared and as varied as they are among folks in today's people world. I gravitate toward works that normalize concepts that folks might find difficult if they observed the same type of relationship at the grocery market. The angst and suspense were enough to keep me awake turning pages and the compassion for one another made me smile more than once. Oh and in all honesty I love the parts that cause the out loud chuckles that make me jump when I do them. If you have not already read the first two books in this series go back and grab them first. You will be lost at best and deprived of how awesome these characters are at the very least if you start here with book 3.
February 11, 2023
Ms Ellie did not disappoint! The emotions of this book are truly a roller coaster! Throughout this adventure you’re riveted to your place of reading hoping and longing, but constantly unsure seeing how enthralled you are with every word. Then a crying mess ensues and yet again the level of spice is truly remarkable..that it leaves you wanton and I most definitely did not expect to be at that level! This book tapped into a whole other level of writing that very much reminded me of the Dresden files by Jim Butcher. Also, be aware that there is some serious dark moments for readers who need content disclaimers… this book is not a fairytale story. I am only sad that it was the end of the story due to the fact that I would read another 20 or 50 chapters in this book alone or even hope for a much longer series. Fortunately, there is a new trilogy coming so I hope that we can revisit with these characters going forward.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2023
I gave this one 4 stars not because I didn't love it because I did. I love ellie's style of writing and how she makes you fully immersed in the story and characters life.
Now I want the new series but alas once again I have to wait.
My main reason for giving this 4 stars instead of 5 was because I felt like parts of it dragged compared to the first 2 stories. The cliff hangers and the way the first two were produced made it a quick easy read you didnt want to put down and unfortunately this didnt read the same.
It was still a amazing storyline and I loved watching the mmcs evolve but I felt like so much happened but no so much as some things were rushed. But in saying that I still need more like now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now I want the new series but alas once again I have to wait.
My main reason for giving this 4 stars instead of 5 was because I felt like parts of it dragged compared to the first 2 stories. The cliff hangers and the way the first two were produced made it a quick easy read you didnt want to put down and unfortunately this didnt read the same.
It was still a amazing storyline and I loved watching the mmcs evolve but I felt like so much happened but no so much as some things were rushed. But in saying that I still need more like now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2023
hmmmm unsure how to feel *spoilers*
So I think this series is well written and does develop the world well but my biggest problem was that throughout the series it felt like there was more SA scenes described then intimate scenes between the characters. I didn’t get a real sense that they loved each other or felt that their relationships were developed correctly and that really bothers me. Also the basically bestiality scenes really disturbed me and I have read dark romances and many things with trigger warnings, and yes he is a shifter but to have to him have sex with a bunch of horses who are not? It just felt really unnecessary and when there is more non-consent in a series than actual relationship building it just didn’t sit right. I think this author is really talented I just wish that I liked the characters bond/relationship.
So I think this series is well written and does develop the world well but my biggest problem was that throughout the series it felt like there was more SA scenes described then intimate scenes between the characters. I didn’t get a real sense that they loved each other or felt that their relationships were developed correctly and that really bothers me. Also the basically bestiality scenes really disturbed me and I have read dark romances and many things with trigger warnings, and yes he is a shifter but to have to him have sex with a bunch of horses who are not? It just felt really unnecessary and when there is more non-consent in a series than actual relationship building it just didn’t sit right. I think this author is really talented I just wish that I liked the characters bond/relationship.
February 27, 2023
This is the third book in the Phoenix Rise trilogy, and you have to read the previous 2 first before this one in order for it to make sense. It helps to have read the other Warrior Hearts novels, but isn't a necessity.
This book picks up right where book 2 left off, and it is a doozy. There is a lot of trial and tribulation throughout the book, and Anna really has her work cut out for her with those mates. All of the characters are easy to feel for, and it's very easy to get carried away in this story with them. The villians are also really, really villainous here.
The main story wrapped up neatly here, but there is still so much more out there in this world to look forward to! I'll read anything written by Ellie Horn, and eagerly await what is next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book picks up right where book 2 left off, and it is a doozy. There is a lot of trial and tribulation throughout the book, and Anna really has her work cut out for her with those mates. All of the characters are easy to feel for, and it's very easy to get carried away in this story with them. The villians are also really, really villainous here.
The main story wrapped up neatly here, but there is still so much more out there in this world to look forward to! I'll read anything written by Ellie Horn, and eagerly await what is next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2023
What has been lost is found and restored to me. Can you have just one mate, there are three that I am drawn to but must I choose one or has fate brought three mates instead of one.
At such a harrowing time at the edge of the abyss is no a place I would choose as a reader to have fate throw not one but three in my path as a suitable mate, any of which are strong enough to dominate me. Do I choose one or take all three?
Does he choose one or take all three as for me I'll take all three. Ms. Thorn draws you in as if you were the heroine. Which is my kind of story, one that marries, action, drama, passion and romance in to a page turner like no other.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
At such a harrowing time at the edge of the abyss is no a place I would choose as a reader to have fate throw not one but three in my path as a suitable mate, any of which are strong enough to dominate me. Do I choose one or take all three?
Does he choose one or take all three as for me I'll take all three. Ms. Thorn draws you in as if you were the heroine. Which is my kind of story, one that marries, action, drama, passion and romance in to a page turner like no other.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2023
The third book in this series and it did not disappoint.
You learn things about each newer member in this bond group, their strengths, their fears and their weaknesses. The biggest thing you learn is their past and how it affects their now.
So many SECRETS!!
I liked that it carried straight on from the last book and that you didn't need to wait long to get to the action. The spice in this book was so many different levels of heat, from sweet and loving to demanding and controlling it was such a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You learn things about each newer member in this bond group, their strengths, their fears and their weaknesses. The biggest thing you learn is their past and how it affects their now.
So many SECRETS!!
I liked that it carried straight on from the last book and that you didn't need to wait long to get to the action. The spice in this book was so many different levels of heat, from sweet and loving to demanding and controlling it was such a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2023
The situation is desperate but not impossible…
Talakai et Matt have been captured by Xumi. Sebastian is in his father’s hands. Anna’s team is seriously depleted but, fortunately, Cara and some teachers at the academy boost her in her search for her fated mates. But time is running out and the atrocities committed by Galeran cannot remain unpunished.
Then the unthinkable happens, Galeran brutally cuts Sebastian horn. Unable to shift back to human, Sebastian is slowly dying.
A riveting, breath-taking race against the clock begins.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Talakai et Matt have been captured by Xumi. Sebastian is in his father’s hands. Anna’s team is seriously depleted but, fortunately, Cara and some teachers at the academy boost her in her search for her fated mates. But time is running out and the atrocities committed by Galeran cannot remain unpunished.
Then the unthinkable happens, Galeran brutally cuts Sebastian horn. Unable to shift back to human, Sebastian is slowly dying.
A riveting, breath-taking race against the clock begins.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2023
Satisfying conclusion to this trilogy! Like I mentioned in my reveiw of the second one this is for the grownups. As usual this duo has put together a world with characters we can't help but care about. The more I read from them the more this feels like a true fairy tale world made real. I love that in this world the women have a strong voice and take care of their own. Sometimes its a tough sell to loved ones but the authors are not afraid to dig into these relationships. Do yourself a favor and read each series in order. Cliffhangers abound.
I received this ARC from BookSirens and am happy to leave this reveiw.
I received this ARC from BookSirens and am happy to leave this reveiw.
April 12, 2023
Are you fucking kidding me. It’s ends on a cliff hanger. I was really hoping that all of the loose ends would be tied up. I really love the story between Anna and Baz, but I feel like the end of the book was rushed between them, I was really upset when he decided not to go back to the academy after he was rescued. Matt is really my favorite of them men, he made me laugh so many times. I feel like Tasi really made this story interesting. If it wasn’t for him it would have just been a burning love story.
I want more. I’m not satisfied with an incomplete story.
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️
Entertaining ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing style ⭐️⭐️⭐️
World building ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Darkness ✨
Spice 🥵🥵
I want more. I’m not satisfied with an incomplete story.
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️
Entertaining ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing style ⭐️⭐️⭐️
World building ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Darkness ✨
Spice 🥵🥵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2024
This was awesome!
This book had me hooked right from the very first page. I expected a tumultuous ride and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
I was giddy when Matt and Anna finally got Talakai brought into the fold. And just in the nick of time. His talents were vital in the quest to find Sebastian before he was gone for good. That was nerve wracking!
The chapters describing Sebastian’s time with Isobel and Galeran was absolutely brutal. The results from that god awful time left him so broken inside…
You REALLY don’t want to miss reading his one!!!! I can’t wait for their story to continue!!
This book had me hooked right from the very first page. I expected a tumultuous ride and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
I was giddy when Matt and Anna finally got Talakai brought into the fold. And just in the nick of time. His talents were vital in the quest to find Sebastian before he was gone for good. That was nerve wracking!
The chapters describing Sebastian’s time with Isobel and Galeran was absolutely brutal. The results from that god awful time left him so broken inside…
You REALLY don’t want to miss reading his one!!!! I can’t wait for their story to continue!!
February 11, 2023
They have face many dangers, and there are more on the horizon, but can Anna and her men draw together and finally become complete? Anna is a strong, resilient woman (and great to read about). A fantastic page turning conclusion to a gripping series, I loved the drama, secrets/mysteries (and discovering more about these fascinating characters), the dynamics of Anna and her men (Matt, Sebastian and Talakai) and I certainly couldn't put this book down. I look forward to any spin off series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2023
The perfect conclusion to the trilogy
Yes! This finale to the trilogy is everything I could have wanted it to be. So very satisfying, and well worth the wait. My only critique is that the very very last bit felt a bit rushed and forced. Otherwise the pacing was fantastic, even if I shared Anna’s frustrations at times. As always, the world building was fantastic, and there is an intriguing hook into the next part of the series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
Yes! This finale to the trilogy is everything I could have wanted it to be. So very satisfying, and well worth the wait. My only critique is that the very very last bit felt a bit rushed and forced. Otherwise the pacing was fantastic, even if I shared Anna’s frustrations at times. As always, the world building was fantastic, and there is an intriguing hook into the next part of the series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
March 7, 2023
Anna has to go to war to find her mates who have been captured. Talakai and Sebastian will be found with issues that will test Anna's strong connection. She will have to fight their demon's in order to win them. Matt will be found with a big change that he will hide until it is imposible to do so. This is full of adventure, hot steamy scenes and tender moments when emotions will be overwhelmed. I have loved this series of books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 4, 2023
Overall, this was a very engaging book. I was engrossed in it so much so that I hated when I had to put it down to attend to real life!! I was bummed that I did not have enough time to just sit and read it in one shot like I would normally do. There was so much tension, a war, love, mats, plans, family, and friendshops that saw me through reading this story and wanting to get back to them at the same time. There were some serious bombshells that dropped in this book. You really need to read this book, and if you haven't read the first two yet, go do that before reading this one!
April 19, 2023
Too much non-con (detailed), dub-con (detailed), SA (detailed), and general assault for me to truly enjoy this series.
Matt was the only one who seemed to have a true connection with Anna. The other 2 were quite literally forced. Plot itself was good but could have been equally as good as an MF with just Matt and Anna and the detailed assaults could have been implied and had just as much impact on the plot.
Be aware of the content of this series as the author does not include content warnings on this.
Matt was the only one who seemed to have a true connection with Anna. The other 2 were quite literally forced. Plot itself was good but could have been equally as good as an MF with just Matt and Anna and the detailed assaults could have been implied and had just as much impact on the plot.
Be aware of the content of this series as the author does not include content warnings on this.
August 22, 2025
Well now you have to write another series for the three siblings to meet up.
Finally Sebastian gets his head in the game. Talakai, Matt and Sebastian should be enough to keep Anna going but hopefully also keep track of her to keep her safe. Nicolai I think will enjoy having her around and now they can work to get Rafael away from Finn and Isobel.
This world is just so fascinating to try and keep track of the stories just go on and on and keep getting better with each one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Finally Sebastian gets his head in the game. Talakai, Matt and Sebastian should be enough to keep Anna going but hopefully also keep track of her to keep her safe. Nicolai I think will enjoy having her around and now they can work to get Rafael away from Finn and Isobel.
This world is just so fascinating to try and keep track of the stories just go on and on and keep getting better with each one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 9, 2023
Ellie writes amazing stories with depth, ingenuity and feeling. Her characters are all unique, with flaws that make them real and therefore genuinely likeable.
This is the last of a trilogy about Anna, Matt, Talakai and Sebastian. Will they get their HEA? I'm not going to spoil it for you, you'll just have to read this yourself. Know that you won't be disappointed as it is the best of the three!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the last of a trilogy about Anna, Matt, Talakai and Sebastian. Will they get their HEA? I'm not going to spoil it for you, you'll just have to read this yourself. Know that you won't be disappointed as it is the best of the three!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2023
The conclusion to this Warrior Hearts Academy was full of angst, drama, and romance with an Aussie Dire, a former assassin Dragon, and an arrogant Unicorn. But trying to hold strong through the mystery that is her life is Anna, a strong woman in more ways than one.
This series has been fun, and rewarding to read and I can't wait to see where the next trilogy leads us!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This series has been fun, and rewarding to read and I can't wait to see where the next trilogy leads us!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2023
This is a great continuation of a fab series! Well paced and filled with action, adventure, humour and a little drama and you find your self drawn back into this dark and dangerous world. Our characters though growing and developing still have many issues to deal with and there are a few heart wrenching moments and then there’s Anna well she’s something else, something so much more! It’s complex, it’s intense and it’s well worth a read.
February 7, 2023
Extraordinary, this book was so amazing. The storyline was excellent and kept me reading page after page. Anna, Matt, Talaki and Sebastian characters were so well thought out and intriguing. One of the best series I have read. Kudos to Ellie Horn. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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